Articles

DETERMINANTS OF DEMAND FOR CITIES WITH HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS: AN APPROACH BASED ON FRACTIONAL REGRESSION

Abstract

Higher education institutions are typically situated in urban areas, making them appealing destinations for students seeking advanced education. This paper aims to explore the factors influencing the demand for cities with these institutions, focusing on the Portuguese context. By analysing distance and the quality of life in municipalities, we can better understand what attracts students to these university cities. Our findings, based on a fractional regression model, reveal that proximity to home and the disparity in rental and accommodation expenses play a significant role in the appeal of these cities for students and their families.

Professors:

Professor Andreia DIONISIO - Departamento de Gestao & CEFAGE-U.E., Universidade de Evora, Portugal andreia@uevora.pt ORCID: 0000-0002-4289-9312

Professor Cassio ROLIM - Departamento de Economia, Universidade Federal do Parana, Curitiba, Brasil cassio.rolim@gmail.com ORCID: 0000-0003-4619-5272

Professor Conceicao REGO - Departamento de Economia & CEFAGE-U.E., Universidade de Evora, Portugal mcpr@uevora.pt ORCID: 0000-0002-1257-412X

JEL classification:

C21, I23, R12

REGIONAL INEQUALITIES: KNOWLEDGE FRONTIERS AND DEBATES

Abstract

Regions are coherent spatial units (i.e., sub-national level) that share common (natural or artificial) features and consist of actors that share common goals. The regional problem exists when there are marked inequalities in the standard of living enjoyed by people in different regions. Regional science, the interdisciplinary scientific locus that is concerned with regional phenomena, aims, precisely, at dealing with the regional problem, and provides insight not only into science per se but also into policy making. The paper provides a comprehensive review of the literature on regional inequalities aiming at identifying current knowledge frontiers and debates. The study of regional inequalities is, apparently, at the heart of regional science.

Professors:

Dimitris KALLIORAS - Professor, University of Thessaly Department of Planning and Regional Development, Greece dkallior@uth.gr

Spyros NIAVIS - Professor, University of Thessaly Department of Planning and Regional Development, Greece spniavis@uth.gr

JEL classification:

R10

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN FORMS OF BULLYING AND ACADEMIC SUCCESS OF HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS IN THE REGION OF PRISHTINA, KOSOVO

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between various forms of bullying and school success among high school students in the Municipality of Prishtina, Kosovo. A total of 204 respondents from six different high schools participated in this research. The study focused on four primary forms of bullying: physical, verbal, social (emotional), racist, sexual, and cyberbullying, and how these experiences influence students’ academic performance, including grade point average (GPA), and attendance. Using a quantitative, cross-sectional research design, data were collected through a structured, selfadministered questionnaire. The results revealed that verbal and social bullying were the most commonly reported forms, and these were significantly associated with lower academic achievement and reduced school engagement. Students exposed to frequent bullying, particularly social and cyber forms, showed a notable decline in motivation, classroom participation, and attendance. The findings emphasize the negative impact of bullying on academic outcomes and highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions in schools. The study concludes that addressing bullying in all its forms is essential for improving students' academic success and creating a safer, more supportive school environment in Prishtina.

Professors:

Alberina HAMITI - MsC., Faculty of Philosophy University of Tetovo, Northern Macedonia alberina.hamiti@gmail.com

JEL classification:

I21, I28, I31, Z18

ELECTRONIC BANKING RISKS: CHALLENGES, SECURITY CONCERNS, AND MITIGATION STRATEGIES

Abstract

Electronic banking has transformed the financial industry by offering convenient, fast, and cost-effective services to consumers and businesses. However, the digitalization of financial transactions also introduces a range of risks and security concerns. Key challenges include phishing attacks, identity theft, malware, and system vulnerabilities, which can lead to financial loss and erosion of customer trust. Additionally, the rapid evolution of technology and increasing regulatory demands pose significant operational hurdles for banks. This paper explores the major risks associated with electronic banking, highlights the most pressing cybersecurity threats, and examines both technical and administrative strategies to mitigate them. Rapid technological development makes the Internet the best way to provide customers with banking services regardless of time and geographic boundaries. Compared to traditional banking, electronic banking provides ease, convenience and access to their customers so that they can use the banking site for all types of transactions in a secure environment. Customers can interact with the banking site 24 hours a day and seven days a week. Despite the many benefits offered by this service, it remains a double-edged sword and is not used by every customer, because the growing distance between the bank and customers can lead to a lack of trust and increased concerns for safety. A particular risk comes with trying to integrate new channels with existing channels. An important step that banks must take before undertaking any kind of transformation is to ensure that online banking risk is properly addressed. Addressing e-banking risk includes a number of measures that banks and users can take to minimize and manage these risks. The purpose of this chapter is to identify the types of risks associated with electronic banking and to propose some of the main methods for dealing with these risks. These include multi-factor authentication, data encryption, customer awareness programs, and robust regulatory compliance. Addressing these challenges requires a holistic approach that combines technology, policy, and stakeholder collaboration. By strengthening digital security infrastructures and fostering a culture of cyber awareness, financial institutions can better protect their systems and customers in an increasingly digital financial ecosystem.

Professors:

Sara BIXHAKU - M.sC. ,"Eqrem Çabej" University, Gjirokastra, Albania sarabixhaku@gmail.com, ORCID: 0009-0005-6084-2175

Antoneta POLO - Assoc.Prof.,"Eqrem Çabej" University, Gjirokastra, Albania neta_polo@yahoo.com, ORCID: 0000-0003-2126-5019

Ilirjana ZYBERI - Assoc. Prof.,"Eqrem Çabej" University, Gjirokastra, Albania izyberi@yahoo.com, ORCID 0000-0003-0591-1738

Enkela CACA - Assoc. Prof.,"Eqrem Çabej" University, Gjirokastra, Albania ebabaramo@yahoo.com, ORCID: 0009-0003-8363-9191

JEL classification:

G21, D14